In January 2022, the Amenities, Culture and Leisure Committee granted approval for a collaboration between the Town Council and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to implement a booking system for the tennis courts situated in John Coles Park. This initiative, with the objective of modernising the facilities and simplifying the process of playing tennis for enthusiasts, was set in motion subsequent to the endorsement by the aforementioned committee.
Subsequent to the endorsement, endeavours were undertaken to secure funding for the installation of a new gate at the tennis courts, and the eagerly anticipated booking system has been successfully established. The official launch of the new system is scheduled for Monday 3rd June 2024.
For those seeking to make reservations for the courts, a dedicated webpage has been established on the LTA website specifically for the John Coles Park tennis courts. Access to the page is available through the following link: John Coles Park / John Coles Park Tennis Courts Chippenham.
In order to book a court, it is necessary to create an account with the LTA. For existing account holders, they will be able to utilise their current account to secure a booking at John Coles Park. Upon completion of the online booking and payment process, a 4-digit pin code will be dispatched to the specified email address, which will be utilised to access the gate at the tennis courts.
Players will have the option to book up to 7 hours per week, one week at a time, with a fee of £6.00 per hour. The introduction of this transparent and accessible booking system will afford tennis players the convenience of planning their playing schedule in advance, ensuring that a court will be readily available for their use through the booking system.
The revenue generated from court bookings is projected to offer financial backing to maintain the tennis courts for the upcoming years, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Notwithstanding these new changes, Chippenham Park Tennis Club upholds its existing block bookings in accordance with their lease agreement. For those seeking further details about the club, additional information can be obtained on their website Chippenham Park Tennis.
In the event that individuals require assistance in setting up an LTA account and navigating through the system, they are encouraged to contact the Customer Services team at the Town Hall either by phone at 01249 446699 or through email at [email protected].
The implementation of this contemporary booking system is a welcomed development for frequent visitors of the tennis courts at John Coles Park, providing a more efficient way of reserving courts while also ensuring the continued enjoyment of this beloved recreational activity for the residents of Chippenham and its surrounding areas.